| Syngamus | A genus of moderate-sized, bloodsucking, strongyle nematodes (family Syngamidae) that live in the bronchi and tracheae of birds, and are especially important parasites of gallinaceous birds. They are called gapeworms because the host often gapes with open mouth due to the presence of the worms in the throat, or forked worms because the male is permanently attached to the midregion of the female, where the bursa of the male is clasped over the female vulva. Origin: syn-+ G. Gamos, marriage Syngamus trachea, a worldwide parasite of the trachea of domestic fowl and many wild birds, causing gapes. (05 Mar 2000) |
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